Understanding stretch marks: origins, types and effective treatments

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are fine streaks that form on the skin when it is subjected to exaggerated tension, causing a rupture of its collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for the skin’s elasticity and firmness. They can also occur during a major hormonal change, such as during puberty or pregnancy.

Types of stretch marks

There are mainly two types of stretch marks:

Red stretch marks : These stretch marks are usually new and result from inflammation of the skin. They are often associated with the formation of new small blood vessels.

White stretch marks : These stretch marks are generally older. They formed when the skin eventually healed after the initial inflammation. White stretch marks are often more difficult to treat than red stretch marks.

Causes of stretch marks

Stretch marks can appear for a variety of reasons. Here are some factors that can promote their appearance:

• Rapid weight gain : When the body gains weight quickly, the skin is stretched to accommodate the new body mass. This can lead to the appearance of stretch marks.
• Pregnancy : During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes rapid and significant changes. The skin is often stretched to accommodate the growing belly, which can lead to the appearance of stretch marks.
• Puberty : During puberty, the body also undergoes rapid changes. This can lead to the appearance of stretch marks, especially in girls.
• Hormonal variations : Certain hormonal variations can also promote the appearance of stretch marks. For example, high levels of the stress-related hormone cortisol can weaken the skin’s collagen fibers, making the skin more susceptible to stretch marks.
• Drug treatment : Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can also weaken the skin and promote the appearance of stretch marks.

The areas of the body most affected by stretch marks

Stretch marks can appear on any part of the body, but they are more common in certain areas. The areas most commonly affected by stretch marks include:

• The belly : The belly is one of the most common areas affected by stretch marks, especially during pregnancy.
• The thighs : The thighs are also a common area for stretch marks, especially in women.
• Breasts : Stretch marks can also appear on the breasts, especially during puberty and pregnancy.
• The arms : Stretch marks can also appear on the arms, often as a result of rapid weight gain.
• The back : Although less common, the back can also be affected by stretch marks.

Stretch mark treatments

There are several red-white stretch mark treatments available today to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It is important to note that these treatments cannot completely remove stretch marks, but they can make them less visible and improve the appearance of the skin.

Stretch mark creams

To treat red stretch marks, the daily application of a cream based on vitamin A acid can be effective. This cream causes irritation that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, allowing it to react against forming stretch marks.

On the other hand, for white stretch marks, vitamin A acid is ineffective because the stretch marks are already established.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is a technique that involves injecting small amounts of medication or other substances directly into the skin. In the case of stretch marks, mesotherapy can help stimulate collagen production, which can improve the appearance of stretch marks.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a new solution to reduce stretch marks. This technique consists of using micro-needles that make multiple small holes in the skin, in order to make it react and regenerate it

The laser

Laser treatment is another option to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. This technique uses beams of light to target and break up damaged tissue, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels are another option for treating stretch marks. These treatments use a chemical solution to exfoliate the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Carboxytherapy

Carboxytherapy is a technique that involves injecting carbon dioxide under the skin. This technique can help stimulate blood circulation and collagen production, which can improve the appearance of stretch marks.

Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency is a technique based on the emission of electromagnetic waves at very high frequencies. It stimulates fibroblasts and therefore the production of elastin and collagen, which makes the skin thicker and firmer.

Leds

LED lights can work by stimulating the deeper layers of the skin with light (photobiostimulation).

Combined care

The combination of several of these treatments can be very effective for the treatment of stretch marks. The results are often better than with exfoliating treatments and the aftermath is much easier to live with.

Conclusion

Stretch marks can be unsightly and annoying, but thanks to advances in aesthetic medicine, there are now effective treatments to reduce or even eliminate these marks. If you are concerned about your stretch marks, do not hesitate to consult with a cosmetic medicine professional to discuss the treatment options available.

The results of stretch mark treatment vary depending on each individual, the depth and severity of the stretch marks. However, most patients notice a marked improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks